# Brazil National Team Prepares for Japan Match in Singapore Carlo Ancelotti tests a 4-2-4 formation featuring Bruno Guimarães and young attackers. - **Source:** [GE Globo – Futebol](https://ge.globo.com/futebol) - **Published:** 2026-11-12 - **Topic:** [sports](https://brifing.si/c/sports) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/0a7e8f22-a155-411b-b7b9-0feb64580eb9 ## Tactical Shift in Singapore Coach Carlo Ancelotti led the first full-squad training session at Jalan Besar Stadium in Singapore this Thursday. The team focused on tactical organization, specifically testing a 4-2-4 formation. This setup aims to maximize offensive output during the upcoming international friendly match against Japan, scheduled for this Saturday at the National Stadium. ## Midfield and Defensive Setup The defensive line featured Wesley, Jair, Gabriel Magalhães, and Douglas Santos during the practice session. In the midfield, Bruno Guimarães returned to full training and partnered with Andrey Santos. This pairing provides a balance between defensive stability and transition play, supporting the aggressive four-man attacking line tested by the coaching staff. ## The 4-2-4 Attacking Strategy The offensive quartet consisted of Estevão, Rayan, Raphinha, and Vini Júnior. During the 11-on-0 drill, Rayan operated centrally behind Raphinha to exploit space within the penalty area. This specific positioning is designed to create more finishing opportunities, allowing the attackers to rotate roles while maintaining high pressure on the opposing defensive line. ## Goalkeeper Rotation Policy The starting goalkeeper position remains subject to the rotation policy established by Taffarel. Pedro Morisco is currently the favorite to start in the upcoming match against Japan. This systematic rotation allows the coaching staff to evaluate different keepers in competitive scenarios, ensuring depth and readiness across the entire squad for future international tournaments. ## Midfield Depth and Alternatives Throughout the training session, Ancelotti observed several players as potential substitutes for the second half. Marlon Gomes, Gabriel Bontempo, and João Gomes were integrated into various roles during the drills. Specifically, the Shakhtar player was tested in both defensive and secondary midfield positions, demonstrating versatility that could prove vital during the match. ## Focus on Offensive Coordination The training session was conducted without an opponent to emphasize the synchronization of attacking movements. Players practiced specific patterns to improve ball circulation and positioning in the final third. By refining these offensive sequences, the team aims to improve their efficiency in front of the goal before facing Japan this Saturday morning. ## International Friendly Context The match against Japan serves as a critical testing ground for Brazil's younger generation of players. With several emerging talents competing for permanent spots, this friendly provides a platform to demonstrate their tactical discipline under Ancelotti. The coaching staff is prioritizing the evaluation of these prospects within the current high-intensity system. ## Upcoming Match Expectations Brazil will face Japan this Saturday at 7:15 AM Brasília time at the National Stadium of Singapore. The outcome will likely influence future squad selections and tactical decisions for upcoming fixtures. Fans and analysts are watching to see if the 4-2-4 formation successfully translates into effective gameplay against a competitive international opponent. ## Sources covering this story - https://ge.globo.com/futebol/selecao-brasileira/noticia/2026/11/12/escalacao-da-selecao-bruno-guimaraes-retorna-e-ancelotti-testa-volta-do-4-2-4-com-rayan-no-ataque.ghtml — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._